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AR HB1601
Bill
Status
5/1/2023
Primary Sponsor
David Ray
Click for details
AI Summary
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Establishes a mandatory licensing system for paid canvassers who collect signatures on initiative and referendum petitions, administered by the Arkansas Secretary of State
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Requires all paid canvassers to complete a minimum 8-hour training program covering Arkansas law and initiative/referendum procedures, pass an examination, and undergo criminal background checks that reveal no disqualifying offenses
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Defines "disqualifying offenses" to include felonies, election law violations, fraud, forgery, identity theft, crimes of violence, drug violations, and theft-related crimes
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Prohibits compensation based on the number of signatures obtained and makes violations a Class A misdemeanor; allows Secretary of State to revoke, suspend, or refuse licenses for violations or false statements
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Declares an emergency effective upon Governor's approval to immediately address unacceptably high rates of facially invalid signatures in petition canvassing
Legislative Description
To Create A License For A Paid Canvasser; To Require The Secretary Of State To Promulgate Rules For A Training Program For Canvassers And For The Licensing Of Paid Canvassers; And To Declare An Emergency.
Last Action
Died in House Committee at Sine Die Adjournment
5/1/2023